White back in GB fold

Nicola White

HOCKEY: THERE will be lots at stake for Nicola White in Valencia next month now that the Oldham-raised Holcombe forward is back in the Great Britain reckoning.

London Olympian White (28) missed out on last December’s Champions Trophy tournament, but is now back for the World League semi-final which take place in Spain between June 10-21.

As well as a place in the World League final being up for grabs, qualification for the 2016 Olympics in Rio can also be secured.

Great Britain head coach Danny Kerry said: “There has been a great deal of competition for places, and the commitment and spirit throughout the squad is excellent.

“Selection should always be challenging and it is a testament to the depth of quality within the group that the staff have had many long meetings over recent months to come to our final tournament squad.

“The competitive nature of the squad will serve us well for the upcoming challenges, not least that of securing a place at the Olympic Games in Rio.”

There will be plenty of experience in the GB squad next month.

Reading defender Emily Maguire has been recalled and is closing in on her 150th combined GB and Scotland cap, while also included is Helen Richardson-Walsh, who reached 250 combined international caps during the recent Investec Private Banking series against Japan, will also feature in her first international tournament since EuroHockey 2013 following a long-term injury.

Great Britain will play hosts Spain in their opening pool game, before facing Argentina, Canada and China to complete the group phase.

GB squad —

Giselle Ansley (Surbiton), Sophie Bray (East Grinstead), Alex Danson, Susie Gilbert (both Reading), Maddie Hinch (Holcombe), Joie Leigh (Clifton), Kirsty Mackay (East Grinstead), Hannah Macleod (St Albans), Emily Maguire (Reading), Shona McCallin (Slough), Lily Owsley (University of Birmingham), Helen Richardson-Walsh, Kate Richardson-Walsh (both Reading), Susannah Townsend (Canterbury), Georgie Twigg (Surbiton), Laura Unsworth (Holcombe), Hollie Webb (Surbiton), NICOLA WHITE (Holcombe).